Sunlight reflected from a smooth ice surface is completely polarized. Determine the angle of incidence. (n_ice = 1.31.) A) 52.6° B) 25.6° C) 65.2° D) 56.2° E) 49.8°

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The angle of incidence at which light is completely polarized upon reflection is given by Brewster's angle, calculated using the formula tan(θ) = n, where n is the refractive index of the material. For ice, with n = 1.31, solving for θ gives θ = tan^(-1)(1.31) ≈ 52.6°.

Sunlight Reflected from a Smooth Ice Surface Is Completely Polarized